Greg Kihn Baltimore MD Death And Obituary: Greg Kihn, the iconic American musician and radio personality, passed away on August 13, 2024, at the age of 75. Best known for his chart-topping hits “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ‘Em)” and “Jeopardy,” Kihn’s death was due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
A Musical Journey
Kihn’s career began in Baltimore, Maryland, where he started as a folksy singer-songwriter. However, it was his move to San Francisco in the early 1970s that truly marked the beginning of his rise to fame. There, he formed the Greg Kihn Band with guitarist Robbie Dunbar, bassist Steve Wright, and drummer Larry Lynch. Although the band initially struggled to gain widespread recognition, they became known for their energetic live performances and received critical acclaim.
The band’s breakthrough came in 1980 with the release of “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ‘Em),” which reached Number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song, co-written by Kihn and Steve Wright, became a defining track of the early MTV era. Kihn’s candid reflection on the song’s creation revealed that the iconic “ah ah ah” sections were originally intended as filler but ended up becoming a hallmark of the track.
Following the success of “The Breakup Song,” the Greg Kihn Band found themselves opening for major acts such as the Rolling Stones and Journey. In 1983, the band reached new heights with “Jeopardy,” a single from their album Kihnspiracy, which soared to Number Two on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was famously kept from the top spot by Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.”
A Legacy in Music and Radio
Beyond his contributions as a musician, Kihn was also a prominent radio personality. His deep knowledge and passion for music allowed him to connect with a broad audience, further solidifying his place in popular culture. Throughout his career, Kihn was known for his artistic innovation and unwavering dedication to his craft, which earned him a lasting legacy among fans and fellow musicians alike.
As the world mourns the loss of Greg Kihn, we celebrate his significant contributions to music and his enduring influence on the industry. His songs, marked by their catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come. Kihn’s innovative spirit and memorable hits have left an indelible mark on popular culture, ensuring that his legacy will live on.